Starlink launched a new rental kit option in the Kenyan market to enhance the accessibility of its satellite internet services. Customers can now rent the equipment for KSH 1,950 (USD 15) monthly, plus a one-time activation fee of KSH 2,730 (USD 21). This initiative aims to mitigate the high initial costs that have impeded its widespread adoption since Starlink’s entry into the Kenyan market in July of the previous year.
Initially, customers were required to make an upfront payment of approximately KSH 89,000 (USD 690) for the hardware, which has been reduced to KSH 45,500 (USD 350) as Starlink broadened its distribution via local retail outlets. The new rental scheme offers a 50 GB monthly data plan with speeds of up to 200 Mbps, posing a challenge to local internet providers whose similar plans are nearly twice as expensive. Additionally, an unlimited data plan is available for KSH 6,500 (USD 50) per month.
As internet access and affordability become crucial for sustaining livelihoods, customers are shifting towards the most feasible solutions. Starlink is addressing this demand with its strengths in delivering high-speed and low-latency internet services and is working to facilitate the adoption of these services. The company is also gaining popularity as it continues to provide reliable internet access to a broader audience.
The growth in Starlink’s subscriber base in the country is a testament to this. According to data from the Communications Authority of Kenya, the company had only 405 subscribers upon its launch in July 2023. This figure increased more than threefold to 1,354 within two months. By March 2024, the number of satellite internet users had risen to 4,808. This upward trend is expected to continue as Starlink’s focus on affordability and quality drives its market penetration and adaptability.
Benefits of Starlink in Kenya
- High-Speed Internet: Starlink offers significantly faster internet speeds compared to traditional terrestrial options in many parts of Kenya. This can be particularly beneficial for remote areas and businesses that require reliable connectivity.
- Low Latency: Starlink’s satellite network ensures low latency, which is crucial for activities like online gaming, video conferencing, and real-time applications.
- Broad Coverage: Starlink’s constellation of satellites provides coverage in areas that may not have access to traditional internet infrastructure. This can help bridge the digital divide.
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